Executive Director

The Atlas Performing Arts Center invites applications and nominations for the position of Executive Director, available in the Summer 2024. Douglas Yeuell, who has served as Executive Director since 2014, recently announced that he will step down at the end of August. A Search Committee has been formed to identify the next Executive Director.

The Opportunity

The next Executive Director (ED) will energize, inspire, and lead the dedicated stakeholders of the Atlas Performing Arts Center in pursuing its mission to serve the arts, artists, and the greater Washington, DC community. The ED will have the opportunity to build on an impressive record of success in creating an important home for the arts in one of the most culturally, ethnically, and economically diverse areas of the Nation’s Capital. The next ED will work with a deeply engaged Board and staff to expand the reach and deepen the impact of the Atlas as a catalyst for development of the performing arts and arts education in the community, and its role as a major asset to economic and cultural development of the H Street neighborhood.

The Position

The Executive Director provides visionary leadership and skilled management for a multi-venue performing arts facility. The ED is responsible and accountable for all aspects of the Atlas’ operations, including: strategic planning; programming and production; fundraising and organizational advancement; marketing, branding, communications, and public relations; budgeting and financial management; human resource management; operations and technology; facilities; partnerships; and community engagement. The ED champions the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of the Atlas’ operations and ensures that the Atlas’ commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion are reflected on the stages, in the Board and staff, and in the audience.

The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and manages a staff of 45 full- and part-time employees, independent contractors, and volunteers. In partnership with the Board Chair, the ED develops the Board in size and capacity to fulfill the mission and meet organizational goals. The ED works with Board members to achieve their individual and collective goals for engagement, fundraising, ambassadorship, and participation. The ED ensures that the Board has timely and accurate information to guide and support their decision-making.

The Executive Director designs and implements comprehensive annual and multi-year artistic plans for the Atlas, including performances, festivals, educational and community programs, and special events that are curated and produced by the Atlas itself as well as the programs and events of partner companies and those that lease space from the Atlas. The ED maintains positive and productive working relationships with the artistic and administrative directors of resident companies and partners. The ED ensures that the Atlas provides a safe and supportive environment that allows all creative and performing artists to do their best work.

The Executive Director leads, oversees, and enhances the effectiveness of the business operations of the Atlas. The ED develops and administers the annual operating budget and ensures that the Atlas achieves its goals for earned and contributed income from all sources. The ED takes a leadership role in the identification, cultivation, and solicitation of donors and provides excellent stewardship for all gifts. The ED leads and oversees all institutional marketing, communications, public relations, and branding initiatives in order to develop new revenue streams and maximize earned income from all sources. The ED is responsible for the overall management of the facility, including maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and lease negotiations.

In championing the mission of the Atlas, the Executive Director develops and maintains excellent professional relationships within the community, enhances the effectiveness of existing partnerships with community groups, businesses, and city government and welcomes opportunities to build new alliances. The ED ensures compliance with policies authorized by the Board to spur community and economic development, consistent with the terms of agreements with the DC Department of Housing and Community Development.

The Executive Director is an active and visible participant in the life of the Washington, DC, community and a strong advocate and spokesperson for the continued development of H Street.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated record of success in leading a not-for-profit, multidisciplinary performing arts venue in an urban environment. The candidate will have a strong working knowledge of music, theatre, and dance and successful experience building diverse audiences and community support. The candidate will have a track record that reflects a deep personal commitment to the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion, and success in expanding broad access to the arts throughout the community and building an environment that fosters a sense of belonging in everyone within the venue itself.

The successful candidate will be a strategic thinker with strong experience in planning, organizational development, and the demonstrated ability to manage people, programs, and facilities. The candidate will have broad knowledge and experience in theatre operations and production. The candidate will be a skilled business leader with the proven ability to develop budgets and operating plans, to control expenses, and to meet and exceed goals for revenue. The candidate will be comfortable with and proficient in the use of technology to enhance organizational efficiency and effectiveness.

The successful candidate will be an enthusiastic and effective fundraiser who is willing to invest considerable time and effort in developing support for the Atlas from individuals, corporations, local businesses, foundations, and government. The candidate will be able to speak and write effectively about the value and importance of the Atlas. The candidate will be experienced in overseeing organizational marketing, communications, and branding efforts. The candidate will have a track record for achieving budget, audience, and fundraising goals.

The successful candidate will be an effective team leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has the proven ability to manage multiple deadlines and competing priorities. The candidate will have successful experience recruiting, motivating, and managing a high-functioning professional staff. The candidate will have the sensibility and temperament to work effectively with creative and performing artists and artistic leaders. The candidate will have the demonstrated ability to work effectively with a not-forprofit board of directors in the unique political, economic, and social environment of Washington, DC.

The successful candidate will have a record of accomplishment in developing community initiatives, fostering relationships, and building effective partnerships. The candidate will welcome the opportunity to play a leadership role in expanding the reach and impact of the Atlas Performing Arts Center on H Street and throughout the greater Washington community.

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $135,000 to $150,000 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.

Visit https://www.atlasarts.org/employment/ for more information.